First Presbyterian Church is part of a denomination of the historic Reformed tradition. Presbyterians understand the Bible to be the essential rule of faith and practice, very much as other Protestants do. They believe that God exists in the trinity of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit; that Christ is the Son of God, the Revealer of God, and the Savior of humanity; and that the church is the Body of Christ in the world. Education is stressed by Presbyterians - both for the ministry and the laity. Presbyterians believe that the Holy Spirit constantly enlightens truth, and thus they admit different understandings of the historical confessions of faith. Ultimately, every Presbyterian must find a personal understanding of faith through study, contemplation, and worship. A very important principle is that "God alone is Lord of the conscience."

Presbyterians emphasize active participation in ministry and worship for all members. The real ministry belongs to the membership of the church, not a special group of clergy set apart from the rest. Presbyterians follow a stated, although not strict, liturgy in services of worship. Thoughtful reading and interpretation of scriptures and prayer are the essentials of worship. The liturgy is designed to include the entire congregation in worship -- just as ministry includes all members.

First Presbyterian Church of Davenport is an inclusive, caring community of faith committed to loving God, loving neighbor as self, and sharing the love of Jesus Christ with all people through worship, fellowship, and service.